ISB ~ 1 Timothy 5 v18

Scripture says:By the time Paul wrote 1 Timothy, certain books of the NT were apparently being revered as part of holy Scripture. In this passage, Paul seems to assume that the citations from Deuteronomy and the Gospel of Luke share the same authority as inspired writings. Some of his own letters were esteemed in this way as well (2 Pet 3:15-16).

You shall not muzzle:A quotation of Deut 25:4. For Paul, permitting animals to eat while they work carries a hidden significance now revealed by the gospel, so that what is true for oxen is even truer for ordained elders: their work entitles them to a share in the community’s food and provisions (1 Cor 9:9-10). The allegorical meaning of this OT passage corresponds to the literal meaning of the NT passage that follows.

laborer deserves his wages:A verbatim quotation of Lk 10:7, where Jesus insists that ministers of the Word have a right to fair compensation for their preaching (CCC 2122). See note on Lk 10:7.